Day to day life with my husband and 4 boys... that's right, I said 4 BOYS!

Monday, May 22, 2006

Let Me Hold You Longer

This is one of my favorite kid's books.I will sometimes read it when I'm havinga rough day with my kids.

Long ago you came to me,A miracle of firsts:First smiles and teeth and baby steps,a sunbeam on the burst.But one day you will move awayand leave to me your past,And I will be left thinking ofa lifetime of your lasts...

The last time that I held a bottleto your baby lips.The last time that I lifted youand held you on my hip.

The last night when you woke up crying,needing to be walked.When last you crawled up with your blanket,wanting to be rocked.

The last time when you ran to me,still small enough to hold.The last time that you said you'd marryme when you grow old.Precious, simple moments from your past -Would I have held on longer ifI'd known they were your last?

Our last adventure to the park,your final midday nap,The last time when you wore your favoritefaded baseball cap.

Your last few hours of kindergarten,those last days of first grade,Your last at bat in Little League,last colored picture made.

I never said good-by to allyour yesterdays long passed,So what about tomorrow-will I recognize your lasts?

The last time that you catch a frogin that old backyard pond.The last time that you run barefootacross our fresh-cut lawn.Silly, scattered imageswill represent your past.I keep on taking pictures,never quite sure of your lasts...

The last time that I comb your hairor stop a pillow fight.The last time that I pray with youand tuck you in a night.The last time when you cuddlewith a book, just me and you.The last time you jump in our bedand sleep between us two.

The last piano lesson,last vacation to the lake.Your last few weeks of middle school,last soccer goal you make.

I look ahead and dream of daysthat haven't come to pass.But as I do, I sometimes misstoday's sweet, precious lasts...

The last time that I help you witha math or a spelling test.The last time when I shout that yes,your room is still a mess.The last time that you need me fora ride from here to there.The last time that you spend the nightwith your old tattered bear.

My life keeps moving faster,stealing precious days that pass,I want to hold on longer -want to recognize your lasts...

The last time that you need my helpwith details of a dance.The last time that you ask me foradvice about romance.

The last time that you talk to meabout your hopes and dreams,The last time that you wear a jerseyfor your high school team.

I've watched you grow and barely noticedseasons as they pass.If I could freeze the hands of time,I'd hold on to your lasts.

For come some bright fall morning,you'll be going far away.College life will beckonin a brilliant sort of way.One last hug, one last good-bye,one quick and hurried kiss.One last time to understandjust how much you'll be missed.I'll watch you leave and think how fastour time together passed.